Israeli Airstrikes Target Southern Lebanon Amid Rising Tensions

Israeli jets conducted airstrikes on several towns in southern Lebanon on Thursday, escalating near-daily attacks in the region. The Israeli military warned residents in areas including Tayba, Teir Debba, and Aita al-Jabal to evacuate before targeting what it described as Hezbollah military infrastructure. The airstrikes followed a statement from Hezbollah urging Lebanon’s government not to negotiate with Israel. Lebanese authorities reported one injury, while over 270 have been killed and around 850 wounded since a ceasefire took effect nearly a year ago.

The strikes coincide with discussions by the Lebanese government and military about disarming Hezbollah and other non-state armed groups. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed criticism toward Israel’s actions but showed willingness to negotiate. Israel maintains the strikes aim to prevent Hezbollah from rebuilding its military capabilities, damaged during a 2024 war. Both sides accuse each other of violating the ceasefire that ended the 2024 conflict, which began following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel.

Separately, the U.S. Treasury imposed new sanctions on financial operatives allegedly funneling Iranian funds to Hezbollah through money exchanges in Lebanon.